WASHINGTON, April 28, 2026 – Brian Given, a seasoned security professional with nearly two decades of experience in emergency management and federal service, has transitioned to Georgetown University as Chief of Staff for the Office of Public Safety. This move brings extensive expertise to the university’s campus safety and security initiatives.
A New Chapter for Campus Security
Table of Contents
given will advise on and lead operational aspects of safety and security at Georgetown.
- Given most recently served as Acting Chief Security Officer at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
- His role at Georgetown includes coordinating departmental initiatives and streamlining administrative processes.
- Prior to Georgetown, Given held multiple leadership positions at FEMA spanning nearly nine years.
- He also spent a decade at Booz Allen Hamilton supporting FEMA and the U.S.Department of Transportation.
In his new role, Given serves as a senior advisor and operational lead, responsible for coordinating departmental initiatives, managing executive communications, and streamlining administrative processes that bolster public safety operations across the university. His appointment signals Georgetown’s commitment to proactive and thorough security measures.
Extensive FEMA Background
Before joining Georgetown, Given dedicated nearly nine years to FEMA, ascending through a series of leadership roles focused on security, continuity, operations, and enterprise management. from April 2025 through January 2026, he served as Acting Chief Security Officer, where he oversaw agency-wide security programs designed to protect FEMA personnel, facilities, and resources, while actively mitigating risks related to fraud and operational disruption.
Previously, as Deputy Chief Security Officer, Given played a crucial role in managing FEMA’s protective services and internal security posture during a period marked by sustained disaster response activity. His leadership was instrumental in maintaining operational integrity during challenging times.
Early Career and Operational expertise
Earlier in his FEMA career, Given directed business and operational functions across multiple mission support components. As Director of the Business Support Division, he coordinated disaster and continuity readiness across FEMA’s mission support enterprise, integrating efforts between human capital, IT, procurement, administrative services, and security offices. He also served as Chief of the Operations Branch within the Risk Management Directorate, overseeing budget execution, acquisitions, and performance management.
Given’s experience extends to enterprise systems progress and emergency communications. He led the integration of FEMA’s customer relationship management platform within the Federal insurance and Mitigation Administration and contributed to national emergency communications planning efforts. Prior to FEM
Description of Changes & Answers to Questions:
* why: Brian Given transitioned to Georgetown University to enhance campus safety and security initiatives, bringing his extensive experience in emergency management and federal service.
* Who: Brian Given, a seasoned security professional, is the key individual involved. Georgetown University is the receiving institution. FEMA is his previous employer.
* What: Given has been appointed as chief of Staff for the Office of Public Safety at Georgetown University.
* How did it end?: The article details the start of his role at Georgetown, not an ending. it describes his transition and the responsibilities he’s taking on. The article doesn’t indicate a conclusion to this appointment.
Breakpoints & Interactive Boxes:
- breakpoint 1: After the initial description of Given’s role and the “Key takeaways” section. This feels like a natural pause before diving
